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Buick 1993 Skylark Owner's Manual

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  • Page 2 The 1993 Buick Skylark Owner's Manual Litho in U.S.A. @Copyright General Motors Corporation 1992 All Rights Reserved A First Edition Part No. 25603820...
  • Page 3 We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name "General Motors of Canada Limited" for Buick Motor Division whenever it GM Emblem, WESUPPORT...
  • Page 5 Walter Marr. and Thomas But& before the company had built On Bnick’s succdss, Durant created a holding company, September 16, 1908. He called it General Motors. William (Billy) Durant 4’...
  • Page 8 The first production V-6 engine was used the Special. 1962 Buick Special Built inside the walls of the old buildings in Buick’s former Flint complex, which formed the cornerstone General Motors, Buick City is a state-of-the-art assembly facility with more than 200 robots and other high-tech equipment.
  • Page 9 , " 1923 Sport Roadster...

  • Page 10: Table Of Contents

    This part tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This part tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects.’’...

  • Page 11: How To Use This Manual

    How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to endwhen they ,first receive their new vehicle. will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly.
  • Page 12 CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. In this manual, we’ve used the familiar words and colors that Buick has used You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They us the same colors, and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.
  • Page 13 Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you will. find -on your vehicle. For example, These symbols these symbols are important used on an for you and original battery: your passengers whenever your vehicle- is CAUTION driven: INJURY PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING FASTEN...

  • Page 14: Seats And Safety Belts

    Part 1 Seats And Safety Belts Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Buick and how to use your safety belts properly learn about some things you should Part 1 includes: SeatsandSeatControls Head Restraints Safety Belts They’re for Everyone...
  • Page 15 : : e ’ Seats and Seat Controls This section tells about the seats them, and also about reclining front seatbacks, and head restraints. Manual Seat You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
  • Page 16 Four Way Manual Seat Drivers Seat Only (Option) If you have this option, you have two levers under the front edge of the seat. The lever near the outer side of the seat unlocks the seat allowing it to slide forward and backs The lever near the center allows up and down.
  • Page 18 itting in reclined osition when our v fflotion can But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

  • Page 19: Head Restraints

    CAUTION: (Continued) The, shoulder belt can't do its job because it won't be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could do into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can't.do its job either. In a crash' the belt could go up over your abdomen.
  • Page 20 Front Seatback Latches (Two-Door Models) The front seatback folds forward to let people get into the back seat. Your seatback will move back and forth freely, unless you come to a sudden stop. Then it will lock in place. There's one time the seatback may not fold without some help from you.
  • Page 21 Folding Rear Seatback (Option) With the folding rear seatbacks you can carry long cargo by folding down part or all of the rear seat. Pull this strap to fold down the seatback. When you fold the seatback up, push the top of the seat.

  • Page 22: Safety Belts They're For Everyone

    Easy Entry Seat Option (Two-Door Models) The right front seat of your vehicle makes it easy to get in and out of the rear seat. When you tilt the right front seatback fully forward, the whole seat will slide forward. After someone gets into the rear seat area, move the right front seatback to its original position.

  • Page 24: Whysafetybeltswork

    Why Safety Belts Work When ride in or on anything, goes. For example, if the bike is going 10 mph (16 is the child. go as fast as it When the bike hits the block, it stops. But the child keeps going! km/h),...
  • Page 25 Take the simplest "cat" Suppose it's just a seat wheels.
  • Page 27 or the instrument panel or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That's why safety belts make such good sense.
  • Page 28 Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after .an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can easily unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.

  • Page 29: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly

    There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for babies and smaller children. If a child will be riding in your Buick, see the section after this one, called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.

  • Page 30: Driverposition

    Cars First Sold In Canada Was your Buick first sold, when new, in Canada? (If was; a sticker on the driver’s door will say “conforms to all applicable Canada motor v.ehicle the rest of Part 1 does not apply to your vehicle.
  • Page 31 And you don’t have to unbuckle when you get out. Just get into your vehicle. Then close and lock the door. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) you can sit up straight. The lap belt should be worn possible.
  • Page 32 Just close the door all the way, then slowly open it. If that doesn’t fix it, then your Buick needs service. We hope you’ll always keep your automatic belt buckled. However, you may need to unbuckle it in an emergency.
  • Page 33 CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash you would move forward too much, which could significantly increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your & g p E ? body. &;?::...
  • Page 34 What’s wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones.
  • Page 35 What’s wrong with this? @’ CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones.
  • Page 37 The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s .more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

  • Page 39: Lap-Shoulderbelt

    Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt...
  • Page 40 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down'on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash.
  • Page 41 CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
  • Page 42 There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat. You will find them tucked in between the seat back and the interior body, about half-way down the edge of the seat back. Here is how you should install the 2.
  • Page 43 4. Buckle the belt around the child, and make sure that both the lap belt and the shoulder belt are secured properly. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. See “Safety Belts, Rear’ Seat Passengers” in the Index. To remove and store the comfort guides, just perform these steps in reverse .order.
  • Page 44 When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt Is snug. Buckle, position make the belt part of a lap-shoulder belt.

  • Page 45: Children

    Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state and Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint.
  • Page 46 CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-pound (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-pound (110 kg) force on your arms.

  • Page 47: Childrestraints

    Child Restraints Be sure to follow theinstructions for the restraint. may find these instructions the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that.
  • Page 49 Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. ,Secure the child in the child restraint as the :instructiom say. 3. Pull out the vehicle's safety belt and run the lap part through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
  • Page 50 5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
  • Page 51 Child Restraint in the Center Securing: Rear Seat Position When you secure a child restraint in position, you’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier section about the to$ strap if the child ! , ; F Ft I ’ , ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ , ~ ~ .
  • Page 52 4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button faces upward or outward, so you’ll be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever need to. 6.
  • Page 53 To use a child restraint here, you will need a special infant/child seat attaching belt and the hardware that goes with it. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Your dealer can get these and install the hardware for you.
  • Page 54 Once the special hardware is installed, please follow the instructions with it and these steps: 1. Unbuckle the automatic lap-shoulder belt by pushing the button on the buckle. It will stay on the door, ready to be rebuckled for use by adults or older children.
  • Page 55 You can make the belt longer by tilting the buckle and pulling it along the belt. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint instructions say. as the...
  • Page 56 Run the belt through or around the child restraint. The child restraint instructions will show 8. Put the hook free end through the slot in the latch plate. 9. To make it tight, pull the belt while you push down on the child restraint.
  • Page 57 Tu remove the infantlchild seat restraint: 1. Push the button on the safety belt buckle and remove the special latch plate. Leave the latch plate special belt. 2. Push the spring on the hook near the door and remove the special 'belt.
  • Page 58 Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle's safety belts. child should sit next If you have the choice, window the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are restrained in the rear seat.
  • Page 59 f&’ What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide.

  • Page 60: Safetybeltextender

    Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen.

  • Page 61: Replacing Safety.belts After A Crash

    Replacing Safety Belts After If you've crash, do need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them.

  • Page 62: Featuresandcontrols

    Part 2 Features & Controls...
  • Page 63 Keys CAUTION: Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. the ignition only. " The door keys are for the doors keys are for ignition and all other locks.
  • Page 65 From the inside: To lock the door, slide the lock control rearward. .$Y''::; To unlock the door, slide the lock control forward.
  • Page 66 Power Door Locks Automatic Door Locks Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of the doors will lock when you move your shift lever out “P” (Park) or “N’(Neutra1). Each time you close your doors and turn on the ignition, the doors will lock automatically only once.
  • Page 67 Trunk Release Remote The trunk release is on the floor between the driver's seat and the door. Pull up on the lever with the open trunk symbol to release the trunk lock. Trunk Remote Release Lockout lockout switch, on the inside of the trunk lid, allows you the remote trunk release inside the passenger...
  • Page 68 Remote Keyless Entry System (Option) If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet away using the key chain transmitter supplied with vehicle Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules.
  • Page 69 Operation The driver’s door will unlock automatically when UNLOCK is pressed, If UNLOCK is pressed twice quickly, all doors will unlock. All doors will lock when DOOR is pressed. The trunk will unlock when the truck symbol but only when the transaxle is in “P” (Park.) Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle.
  • Page 70 4. Replace the front cover. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water won’t get in. Replace the screw in the back cover. Rear Door Security Lock Your Buick may be equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers doors of your car from the inside. locks: 1.
  • Page 71 -- When you park your Buick and open the driver’s’a*oor, you’ll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this.
  • Page 72 ParkinP Lots: If you parkin a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk or glove box.
  • Page 73 Ignition Key Positions Your square-headed opgs.@gs your ignition lock. This lock gives you five different positions. Before you put the key in, your ignition will be in the Lock position. This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft deterrent feature. The other positions let you perform these functions: ACC: Accessory lets you’use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off.
  • Page 74 steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key. OFF: This position lets you turn turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock “Off’” wheel like “Lock.” Use if you must .have your car in motion while the engine is off. RUN: This is the position for driving.
  • Page 75 To start your L4 2.3 Lites (Code push pedal before Don’t the accelerator some engine. other vehicles this, but because of your vehicle’s computer systems, you don’t. Turn your ignition key to “Start.” When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.
  • Page 76 V6 3.3 start your Liter (Code N) engine: Don’t push the accelerator pedal before starting your engine. In some other vehicles you might need to do this, but because of your vehicle’s computer systems, you don’t. Turn your ignition key to “Start.” When the engine starts, let go of the key.
  • Page 77 The answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact a Buick dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer...
  • Page 78 “ Ensure the shift lever is fully in “P” starting the engine. Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from “P” (Park) when the ignition key is in the “Run” position. If you cannot shift out of “P”...
  • Page 79 you wish. (Press the shift lever into the gear lever button before moving the shift lever console models.) See “SI ifting’ Out section, (Reverse) Use this gear to back To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or, Snow”...
  • Page 80 2 (Second Gear) This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use “2” hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.
  • Page 81 To release the parking brake: Hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the brake The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels. release lever.
  • Page 82 are on a hill: See Parking on Hills” in the Index. “ That section shows how to t u k your front wheels. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill: Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows “...
  • Page 83 Move the lever up far is it will go. 3. Move the ignition key to “Lock.” 4. Remove the key and take it with walk away from your vehicle with the ignition key-in ‘‘P13 your hand, your vehicle is-in Console Shift Lever 1.
  • Page 84 If can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into “P” (Park). Shifting Out of P (Park) Your Buick has have to fully applv your regular brake before shift from position.
  • Page 85 Parking Over Things That Burn CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust rrts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things can burn. CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell.
  • Page 86 -Running Your Engine While You’re ‘Parked to park It’s better n.ot with the engine running. But here are~same ever have to, Idling the engine with tfie air 8could al~low dangerous exhaust into j o u r vehilcle (see the earlier Cawtionunder “‘Engine IExhaust”: Also, idling In a Closed-in>...
  • Page 87 Adjustable Ride Control System (Option) This suspension system option allows the driver to adjust the ride comfort according to road conditions. To select a ride comfort option, push one buttons: Soft This provides a smooth, comfortable ride. Auto This setting automatically adjusts the system. While traveling at speeds under the system will adjust to the soft ride.
  • Page 88 Power Windows (Option) If your car has this option, the controls are near each window. Your driver's window has an express-down feature. Quickly press and release the AUTO switch and the driver's window will open a small amount. switch is pressed for more than window will go all the way down.
  • Page 89 Tilt WheeI (Option) tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it ,to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever.
  • Page 90 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for Right) and two downward (for Left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.
  • Page 91 Ihrn Signal tCONSS Chime A chime will sound if your turn signal having gone 3/4 of a mile, to remind signal off. Operation of Lights Although your vehicle’s lighting system (headlights, parking lights, fog lamps, side.marker lights and taillights) meet all applicable federal lighting requirements, certain states and provinces may apply their own lighting regulations that may require special attention before you operate these lights.
  • Page 92 If your headlights are on, but on low beam: system works normally. Just pull the lever until it clicks. Your headlights will shift to high beam and stay there. To return to low beam, just pull the lever toward you. Windshield Wipers You control the windshield wipers by moving the lever marked “WIPER.”...
  • Page 93 Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an OVI. Windshield Washer The top of the wiper lever has the word “WASH’ on it. ’0 spray washer fluid on the windshield, pull the lever Laward you.
  • Page 94 Cruise Control (Option) With Cruise Control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 or more without keeping your foot on km/h) the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise Control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph When you apply your brakes, the Cruise Control shuts off.
  • Page 95 Set Cruise Control Move the Cruise Control switch to "ON." CAUTION: If you leave your Cruise Control switch on when you're not using Cruise, you might hit a button and go into Cruise when you don't want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the Cruise Control switch "OFF"...
  • Page 96 3. Push in the set button at the end of the lever and release it. (The “CRUISE’ light on the instrument panel will come on.) 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. To Resume a Set Speed Suppose you set your Cruise Control and then you apply the brake.
  • Page 97 2. Push the button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed, Here’s the second to go to a h i g h spee.d: Move the Cruise switch from “ON” to “RES/ACC.” Hold it there until you up to the speed you want, and then release the switch.
  • Page 98 To Reduce Speed While Using Cruise Control two ways tu reduce your There cruise control: Push in the button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release To slow down in very small amounts, push the button fur less than half second.
  • Page 99 “OFF.” Move the Cruise switch to light will go out.) To Erase Speed Memory When you turn off the Cruise Control or the ignition, your Cruise Control set speed memory is erased. (The “CRUISE’...
  • Page 100 Lights The headlight switch is located on the control left of the steering column. To turn on your lights, turn the band marked LIGHTS. It controls these light systems: Headlights Taillights Parking Lights License Lights Sidemarker Lights The interior courtesy lights can be turned on by rotating the control located on the instrument panel to MAX.
  • Page 101 Headlights Reminder Light (Canada Only) If your vehicle was first sold, when new, in Canada, this go on light will at night to remind headlights. Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) The Canadian Federal Government has decided that “Daytime Running Lights” (DRL) are a useful feature, in that DRL can make your vehicle more visible to pedestrians and other drivers during daylight hours.
  • Page 103 Courtesy Lights When any door opened, several lights go on. They easy make it for you to enter and leave the car. can turn these lights on by rotating the interior light control to MAX. The rear compartment lamp is also activated when doors are opened, the deck lid is opened interior light control is rotated to MAX.
  • Page 104 Adjust each mirror so you can just see the side of your vehicle. If your Buick has the optional power mirror control, the mi.rror control is located on the driver’s door. Rotate the control to the left or right to choose the mirror you want to adjust.
  • Page 106 The net isn’t for larger, heavier loads. Store them in the trunk as far forward as you can. the snuffer can unhook the net so that it will lie flat when you’re not using it. Ashtrays The front center ashtray may be lifted out for cleaning. To remove the rear ashtray for cleaning, press down as you pull the ashtray down and out.
  • Page 107 Cigarette Lighter To use It’s near the ashtray. the cigarette lighter,’push it in all When the way and let go. it’s ready, it will back arette lighter in while it is heating, it won’t be able to back away from the heating element when it’s ready. Thal can make it overheat, damaging the lighter and the heating element.
  • Page 108 Assist Handles Above each rear door are as-sist handles that come down to help you get in or out of your Buick. Coat Hanger Pushing on the coat hanger symbol allows you to use the coat hanger.
  • Page 109 (used in the or kilometers (used in Canada). Your Buick has a “tamper-resistant odometer.” If you can see silver lines between the numbers, probably someone has tried to turn it back. The numbers may not be true.
  • Page 110 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This section describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement.
  • Page 111 At the stati0n;the pump shuts off before. the gas. reads “F.” gage Brake System Warning Light...
  • Page 112 Then the engine to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your Buick needs service. Unless the regular brake system warning light is also on, you will still have brakes, but not anti-lock brakes.
  • Page 114 Low Coolant Warning Light If this light comes on, your system is low on coolant and the engine may overheat. See “Engine Coolant’’ in the Index and have your vehicle serviced as soon as you can. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) A computer monitors operation of your fuel, ignition and emission control systems.
  • Page 116 This gage tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure. If the gage reads in the red band, and stays there, it means oil isn’t going through your engine properly. You could be low on oil or you might have some other problem.
  • Page 117 If the light stays on, you need service, and should take your Buick to the dealer once. To save your battery until you get there, turn off see “Engine all accessories, and set your air system to OFF.
  • Page 118 Tachometer (Option) The tachometer tells you how fast the engine is running. It displays engine speed hundreds of revolutions per minute (RPM). Do not operate tne engine with the tachometer the red area, or engine damage may occur...

  • Page 120: Comfort Controls And Audio Systems

    Part 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this part you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control systems and audio systems offered with your Buick Be sure to read about the particular system supplied with your vehicle Part 3 includes:...
  • Page 121 Fresh air from outside your vehicle flows through your Buick when the car is moving. When the vehicle is not moving, you can get outside air to flow through by selecting any air choice (except the rear window defogger) and the HI fan speed.
  • Page 122 BIL (Bi-level) This setting allows the outside air to flow through your Buick in two ways. Cooler air is directed to the upper portion of your body through the vent outlets. Slightly warmer air directed through the heater ducts and defroster outlets.
  • Page 123 I’ not cover thisdamage. And don’t put decals Air Conditioner (Option) The air conditioner cools the air coming into your vehicle. The air conditioner won’t the windows are closed. On a very hot day, you might want to open the windows to let the hottest air out. This setting provides maximum cooling with amount of work.
  • Page 124 AM Stereo This means the Delco@ system can receive C-QUAM@ stereo broadcasts. Many AM stations around the country use C-QUAM@ to produce stereo, though some do not. (C-QUAM@ is a registered trademark of Motorola, Inc.) If your Delco@ system can get C-QUAM@, your “STEREO”...
  • Page 125 To Play This Radio The Upper Knob The upper knob does these things: It turns the radio on. It controls the volume. It tells you the time (When the ignition is off, push the recall knob to display the time.) The control behind the upper knob allows you balance the sound between the right and left speakers..
  • Page 126 Pushbuttons The four pushbuttons let you return to favorite stations. You can set the pushbuttons for up to fourteen stations (7 AM and 7 FM). Tune in the desired station. Press the SET pushbutton. (SET appears display.) Within 5 seconds, push one of the four pushbuttons to store a station.
  • Page 127 To Play This Radio The Upper Knob The upper knob does these things: It turns the radio on. It controls the volume. It tells you the time (When the ignition is off, push knob to display the time.) It allows you to hear the other side of a tape. (Press PROG-RCL knob while a cassette is playing.) _____ The control behind the upper knob allows you...
  • Page 128 Tune in the station you want. Press the SET pushbutton. (SET appears in the display.) Within seconds, push one of the four pushbuttons to store the station. Whenever you press that button, the preset station will return. Three additional stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at the same time.
  • Page 129 Reverse To reverse the tape, press and the tape will reverse rapidly until you press the STOP-EJECT button lightly. Program To go from one side of the tape to the other, press the RECALL knob. Eject To remove the tape or stop the tape and switch to radio, press the STOP-EJECT button.
  • Page 130 Fade The control behind the lower knob moves the sound between your front and rear speakers. Recall It tells you the time. When the ignition is off, push RCL to display the time. Seek 4 or Pressing the Seek 4 or b button will cause the receiver to seek the next lower or higher station and stop.
  • Page 131 To Play A Compact Disc Before begin, please note: that are called singles. They won’t eject. Use full-size comuuct only. discs If the disc player is very hot, or if you’re driving on a very rough road, the disc may come out, or just not play. If you see the word HOT on the display, the disc player is too hot to play the disc.
  • Page 132 Prev Press PREV to hear the previous track. If you hold the PREV button or press it more than once, the disc will return to previous tracks. Next Press NEXT to hear the next track now (instead of waiting until the present track is finished.) If you hold this button, or press it more than once, the advance further.
  • Page 133 Step 7. Rotate the TUNE knob right or left to make the next two numbers agree with your code. Step 8. Press the BAND AM-FM Knob and “000” will appear. Now you are ready to enter the second three digits of your code. Repeat steps 6 and 7 to enter digits.
  • Page 134 back-up code) and the unit is in the UNSECURED mode. If the display shows"SEC", the disabling sequence was.unsuccessfu1 and the numbers did not match either of the codes and the unit will remain in the SECURED mode. Care of Your Cassette Tape Player Your tapes will sound best if you clean your cassette tape player from time to time.
  • Page 135 Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged, the mast should ever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should replace it.
  • Page 136 damaged. If the antenna does not go down when you turn the radio off, it may be damaged or neea to be cleaned. In either case, lower the antenna by hand by carefully pressing the antenna down. your Ifthe mast portion of an$ema is damaged, you can See your dealer for a replacement easily replace...
  • Page 137 1954 Buick 56C...

  • Page 138: Yourdrivingandtheroad

    Part 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds included many other useful tips on driving Part 4 includes: RoadSigns DefensiveDriving DrunkenDriving ControlofaVehicle Braking Steering Passing LossofControl DrivingatNight DrivingintheRain Driving in Fog, Mist and Haze .

  • Page 139: Roadsigns

    Road Signs The road signs you see everywhere are coded by color, shape and symbols. It's a good idea to know these codes so that you can quickly grasp the basic meaning or intent' of the sign even before you have a chance to read it. Color of Road Signs means STOP.
  • Page 140 RAILROAD ADVANCE CROSSING YELLOW indicates a general warning. Slow down and be careful when you see a yellow sign. It may signal a railroad crossing ahead, a no passing zone, or some other potentially dangerous situation. Likewise, a yellow solid line painted on the road means “Don’t Cross.’’ NARROW AHEAD FLAGGER...
  • Page 141 E X " 1 4 4 ; GREEN is used to guide the driver. Green signs may indicate upcoming freeway exits or show the direction you should turn to reach a particular place. HOSPITAL BLUE signs with white letters show motorists' services.
  • Page 142 Shape of Road Signs The shape of the sign will tell you something, too. An OCTAGONAL (eight-sided) sign means always red with white ST0 P letters. A DIAMOND-shaped sign is a warning of something ahead - for example, a curve, steep hill, soft shoulder, or a STOP.
  • Page 143 LEFT KEEP RIGHT THROUGH RECTANGULAR (square or oblong) signs show speed limits, parking regulations, give directions, and such information as distances to cities. Symbols on Road Signs RIGHT TURN ONLY There are many international road signs in use today. The basic message of many of these signs is in pictures or graphic symbols.
  • Page 144 Traffic Lights We’re all familiar with traffic lights or stop lights. Ofte green arrows are being used in the lights for improved traffic control. On some multilane roads, green.arrows light up, indicating that traffic in one or more lanes can move or make a turn.

  • Page 145: Defensivedriving

    The best advice anyone can give about\driving is: Drive mare polite, defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your Buick: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.) of important .-_. . c * * “ j y ; , “C.$ ,.>...

  • Page 146: Drunkendriving

    Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads, or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes. Expect children to dash out from behind parked cars, often followed by other children.
  • Page 147 Police records show that half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol - a driver, a passenger or someone.else, such as been drinking. most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. Over 25,000 motor vehicle-related deaths occur each year because of alcohol, and thousands of people are injured.
  • Page 148 BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a slightly lower BAC level. DRINKING THAT WILL RESULT,IN A BAG OF .O5% IN THE TIME SHOWN OF DRINKS in picture) 4 BODY WEIGHT IN POUNDS The law in most U.S.

  • Page 149: Controlofavehicle

    in a alcohol person’s system can make crash injuries worse. That’s especially true for brain, spinal cord and heart injuries. That means that if anyone who has been drinking -- driver or passenger is in a crash, the chance of being filled or permanently disabled is higher than if that person had not been drinking.

  • Page 150: Braking

    Braking Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But that’s only an average.
  • Page 151 Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Your Buick has an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent skidding. This light on the instrument panel will go start your vehicle.
  • Page 152 When you start your vehicle and begin to drive away, you may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise. And you may even notice that your brake pedal moves a while this is going on. This is the itself. If you have your foot on the brake pedal, this check won’t happen until the vehicle goes about 4.mph or until you take your foot off the brake pedal.
  • Page 153 Disc Brake Wear Indicators Your Buick has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed.
  • Page 154 CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle...

  • Page 155: Steering

    Braking in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system fails to function, you can steer but it will take much more effort.
  • Page 156 But sometimes you can't; there isn't room. That's the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem. Your Buick can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. It is better to remove much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available.

  • Page 157: Passing

    Off-Road Recovery You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.
  • Page 158 So here are some tips for passing: “Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides, and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time.

  • Page 159: Lossofcontrol

    “overdriving” those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your Buick’s three control systems. In the braking skid your wheels aren’t rolling. much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force.

  • Page 160: Drivingatnight

    vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues such as enough water, ice or packed snow on the road to make a “mirrored surface” and slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: Any anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid. Steer the way you want to Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving.
  • Page 161 Night Vision No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What you do in the daytime can also affect your night vision.

  • Page 162: Drivingintherain

    A. Few ,More Night Driving Suggestions Keep your eyes moving; that way, it’s easier to pick out dimly lighted objects. Just as your headlights should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness -- the inability to see in dim light -- and aren’t even aware of it.
  • Page 163 wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your windshield wiper bladesare in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road, and even people walking.
  • Page 164 CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. The: work well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or car wash, apply your brake pedal ligh rtil your brakes work normally.

  • Page 165: Driving In Fog, Mist And Haze

    Driving in Fog, Mist and Haze Fog can occur with high humidity or heavy frost. be so mild that you can see through it for several hundred feet (meters). Or it might be so thick that you can see only a few feet (meters) ahead. It may come suddenly to an otherwise clear road.

  • Page 166: Citydriving

    City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are going.
  • Page 168 Entering the Freeway At the entrance there is usually ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where blend with the flow.
  • Page 169 Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be Obviously, this could ready and willing to help if you need it. Here are some things you can check before a trip:...
  • Page 170 Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook along your route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps? On the Road Unless you are the only driver, it is good to share the driving task with others.
  • Page 171 Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain. If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. Keep your vehicle in good shape.
  • Page 172 CAUTION: If you don’t shift down, your brakes hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhi slope.
  • Page 173 Hills and mountains mean spectacular scenery. But please be careful where you stop if you decide to look at the view or take pictures. Look for pull-offs or parking areas provided for scenic viewing. Another part of this manual tells how to use your parking brake (see “Parking Brake”...
  • Page 174 Parking Uphill parking on the left side, your wheels should point to the If there is curb, turn your wheels to the left if the curb right. is at the right side of your vehicle.
  • Page 175 If there is no curb when you’re parking uphill, turn the wheels to the right. If there is no curb when you’re parking uphill on the left side of a one-way street, your wheels should be turned to the left. Torque Lock (Automatic Transaxle) you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into“‘F”...
  • Page 176 Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your Buick in good shape for winter. Be sure your engine coolant mix is correct. Snow tires can help in loose snow, but they may give you less traction on ice than regular tires. If you...
  • Page 177 Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good t r a c t i o n ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ - ! ~ ~ ~ . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ , ~ . . : i : : : ; . ’ ; ~ ~ ~ &...
  • Page 178 remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers. If You’re Caught in a Blizzard If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation.
  • Page 180 Towing a Trailer CAUTION: If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy. the brakes may not work well or even at all. Yo and your passengers could be seriously injured.
  • Page 181 Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles special equipment that you have on your vehicle. (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. advice, or you can write us at Buick Motor Division, Then, during the first 500 miles (800 tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 h / h ) and...
  • Page 182 Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total capacity weight of your vehicle. The capacity weight includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle.
  • Page 183 The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them. Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and. your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop the road if it becomes separated from the hitch.

  • Page 184: Parkingonhills

    Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left.
  • Page 185 But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift (Park) 2. Have someone place chocks under.the trailer wheels. 3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.

  • Page 186: Problemsontheroad

    Part 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road Part includes: ............Hazard Warning Flashers OtherWarningDevices .

  • Page 187: Hazard Warning Flashers

    Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lights will flash on and off.
  • Page 188 Move the switch to the right to make your front and rear turn' signal lights flash on and off. Your hazard flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn't in. To turn off the flashers, move the switch to the left.
  • Page 190 You could be injured if the whicles each ve,hicle, ‘Put an parking brake firmly on automatic tra’nsaxle in “P*” (Pa~k) transaxle in (Neutral). ‘W’ 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Turn off all lights that aren’t needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries.
  • Page 191 5. Check that the cables don't have loose or jumper missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some things should know. Positive and negative will go to negative engine part.
  • Page 192 6. Connect the red positive cable to the positive terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive terminal if the vehicle has one. 7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+ ) terminal of the good battery.
  • Page 193 Don't let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative cable doesn't go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery. 9.

  • Page 194: Towingyourbuick

    Towing Your Buick Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Buick The usual towing equipment is a sling-type (A) or a wheel-lift (B) or car carrier (C) tow truck. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it...
  • Page 195 When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key off. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. column lock for this. The transaxle should be in Neutral and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the front wheels, unless you must.
  • Page 196 Front Towing Use a wheel lif? or a car carrier only. Additional ramping may be required for the car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps.
  • Page 197 Rear Towing NOTICE: o not tow with ascia/fog lamp damage will occur. Use a wheel lift or a car carrier only. Additional ramping may be required for the car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps.
  • Page 198 CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until cools down.
  • Page 199 If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about ten minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. If the, warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away.
  • Page 200 CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
  • Page 201 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above “FULL COLD,” add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and the proper antifreeze at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it.
  • Page 202 CAUTION': your Adding only plain water to can be dangerous. Plain water, or some lother liquid li~ke alcohol, can boil before tihe proper coolant mix will. Your whicl'e's CoOilant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wron.g, mix, your engi'ne could8 get too h,ot but you wouldn't get thie overheat warning.
  • Page 203 2. Then keep turning the ‘pressure cap, slowly, and remove it. F - - - - - - - 3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mix, up to “FULL COLD’ or just above the small cylinder at the base of the opening.
  • Page 204 With the coolant surge tank pressur\e cap off, engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fan. 5. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mix to the coolant surge tank until the level reaches the split line formed by the black and white part of the tank.

  • Page 205: .If A Tire Goes Flat

    .If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain yourtires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side: Take your foot off the...
  • Page 206 The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. The equipment you'll need is in the trunk.
  • Page 207 Wheel Covers Remove either of these wheel covers by using the flat Using the wheel wrench, loosen end of the wheel wrench. Pry along the edge wheel cover until it comes off. Be careful; the rim edges may be sharp. Don’t try to remove hands.
  • Page 209 ..>? i s <.&,j ,;pi>@, -, . G s e the vehicle by Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces or spare wheel.
  • Page 210 CAUTION: Rust: 'dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel become loose after a time. The w~heel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places whiere the wheel attach'es to emergency, you can use a doth olr a paper towel to do this;...
  • Page 211 Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.
  • Page 212 CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to get the right kind. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench.
  • Page 213 you are driving with a compact spare. See when “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

  • Page 214: If You're Stuck In Sand, Mud, Ice Or Snow

    Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle cause injury. In a sudden stop equipment could strike s-neone. Store all these in the r-7per place. If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels.
  • Page 215 Rocking your vehicle to get it out: First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. Then shift back and forth between “R” and a forward gear spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transaxle is in gear.
  • Page 217 Doing Your Own Service Work CAUTION: You can be injured if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, and the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.
  • Page 218 Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D48 the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S.
  • Page 220 Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that cause very bad injuries.
  • Page 221 While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). If you get gasoline on you and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly.
  • Page 222 Checking Things Under the .Hood Hood Release open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle. It is located area to the left and beneath the instrument panel. Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release.
  • Page 223 CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire.
  • Page 224 Engine Oil It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick is located directly behind the engine fan.
  • Page 225 To Check Engine Oil: Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip lower. When to Add Oil: If the oil is at or below the upper mark, then you’ll need to add some oil.
  • Page 226 What Kind of Oil to Use: Look for three things: “SG’ must be on the oil container, either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as “SG/CC,” “SG/CD,” “SF,SG,CC;” etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality.
  • Page 227 Engine Oil Additives: Don't add anything to your oil. Your Buick dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil: See if any one of these is true for you: (4 DEGREES C).
  • Page 228 It’s below freezing outside and most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km). The engine is at low speed most of the time (as in door-to-door delivery, or in stop-and-go traffic). You tow a trailer often. Most trips are through dusty places. If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles ( 5 or 3 months -- whichever comes first.
  • Page 229 Air Cleaner The air cleaner is located on the driver’s side engine compartment. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. of the See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.
  • Page 230 CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn't there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don't drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off-...
  • Page 231 Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: When outside temperatures are above 90 At high speed .for quite a while. In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180’F to 200’F (82OC to 93 “C).
  • Page 232 Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37 Give boiling protection up to 262 F Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights work "C) " (128 they should.
  • Page 233 ~~~x~~~~ of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets Specification 1825-M,” which won’t damage aluminum parts. You can also use a recycled coolant conforming to GM Specification 1825-M with a complete coolant-flush and refill. Use GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) with any complete coolant change.
  • Page 234 To Add Coolant: If you need more coolant, add the proper mix at the surge tank, but only when the engine is cool. CAUTION: Turning the surge tank pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly.
  • Page 235 Power Steering Fluid How To Check Power Steering Fluid: Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with .a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the “HOT”...
  • Page 236 Windshield Washer Fluid To Add: Open the cap labeled “WASHER FLUID ONLY.” Add washer fluid until the bottle is full. Don’t mix w fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tan water doesn’t clean as well as wash Fill your washer fluid tank only 3/4 f when it’s very cold.
  • Page 237 Brake Master Cylinder Your brake master cylinder is here. It is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in your master cylinder might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear.
  • Page 238 Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake parts in them, as your Buick does when it is new. When you replace parts of your braking system -- for example,...
  • Page 239 Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your fehicle for longer storage periods. :Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Take special care when handling and disposing of halogen bulbs.
  • Page 240 Remove the wire connect from the bulb by lifting the Pull the bulb/socket straight out from the access cover. lock tab and pulling it away from the plastic base. Replace the bulb. Reverse the procedures to reinstall the headlamp bulb.
  • Page 241 Loading Your Vehicle TIRE-LOADI',NG INFORMATION OCCUPANTS VEHICLE CTR. FRT. TOTAL LBS. & LOADING GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT- SIZE TIRE PSI/KPa .R.TG FRT. SPA. IF TlRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PSI28KPa SEE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry.
  • Page 242 Buick. If your spare tire is a different brand than your road tires, will have a tire warranty folder from each manufacturers.
  • Page 243 Inflation Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label which is located on the rear edge of the driver’s door shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires, when they’re cold, “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for three hours or driven no more than a mile. overinflation is all right.
  • Page 244 When to Check: Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 P a ) . t c o Check: Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. Simply looking at the tires will not tell you the pressure, especially if which may look~properly inflated even if they’re underinflated.
  • Page 245 When It% Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. You need a new tire if You can see the indicators at three places around the tire.
  • Page 246 The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage. Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall.
  • Page 247 (1 112) times as well on the government course as graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices.and differences in road characteristics and climate.
  • Page 248 If the wheel leaks air out, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired -- See your Buick dealer) if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need.
  • Page 250 Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything in a container to clean your Buick, be sure to follow the instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you're cleaning the inside.
  • Page 251 Use solvent-type cleaners in a well-ventilated area only. you use them, don’t saturate the stained area. If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entire area immediately or it will set. Using Foam-Type Cleaner on Fabric Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. trim Always clean a whole panel or section.
  • Page 252 Special Cleaning Problems Greasy or Oily Stains: Like grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe polish, coffee with cream, chewing gum, cosmetic creams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt. Carefully scrape excess stain. Then follow the solvent-type instructions above. Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain if left on a vehicle seat fabric.
  • Page 253 Wiper blades should be checked on a regular basis and replaced when worn. films. Cleaning the Outside of Your Buick The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of color, gloss retention and durability. of the rear...
  • Page 254 High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle. Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Buick may be necessary to remove residue from You can get GM approved cleaning pr,oducts from your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.)
  • Page 255 . - 1 White Sidewail Tires your Buick dealer has a GM White Sidewall Tire Cleaner. You can use a stiff brush with it. Weatherstrips These are places where glass or metal meets rubber. Silicone grease there will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
  • Page 256 Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Buick will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 whichever comes first.
  • Page 257 Not recommended for pigskin suede leather. See Your General Motors Dealers for These Products.' See Your Maintenance Schedule for Other Products. You can get these from your Buick dealer. DESCRIPTION Magic Mirror Creme Wax Spray-A-Squeak Silicone Grease Tar and Road Oil Remover...
  • Page 258 MODEL CODE YEAR. This is the legal identifier for your Buick. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certificates of title and registration.
  • Page 259 Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your car are protected from short circuits.by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers, and fusible thermal links in the wiring itself. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Be sure to use the correct fuse.
  • Page 260 Description PRNDL Backup Lamps, Electronic PRNDL Display F/P INJ Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors Stop Lamps, Hazard Flashers STOP HAZ Trunk Lamp,-Door Lock Switches, Power Mirrors CTSY (Automatic Transmission Only) Remote Keyless Entry Instrument Panel Lighting INST LPS Gauges, Rear Defog Relay, Antilock Brake Telltale, Brake Transmission Shift Interlock GAUGES HORN Horn...
  • Page 261 The fuse chart, below, shows how to tell a blown fuse from a good fuse. GOOD FUSE GM PART NO. RATING 12004003 12004005 5 -AMP TAN 12004006 7.5 AM.P 12004007 10 AMP 12004008 15 AMP 12004009 20 AMP 12004010 25 AMP 12004011 30 AMP Headlights...
  • Page 262 Overall: ....Length Width Height ....Wheelbase .
  • Page 263 Application EXTERIOR Headlight Side Marker Park/Tu Backup High Level Stop License Marker Tail Tail/Stop/Turn Replaceable Light Bulbs Application Number INTERIOR Ashtray Footwell Courtesy 9004 Header Reading 20057 Glove Box 1 156 Quartercourtesy Trunk Underhood Vanity Mirror 3057 7065...
  • Page 264 Made in a GM plant in the United States. Part numbers are AC type. Air Conditioning Refrigerant vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure ask your Buick dealer. Capacities and Specifications (QUAD 4) OHC Fuel Tank Capacity 15.2 gallons/57.5 liters...
  • Page 265 Air Conditioning Refrigerant Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure ask your Buick dealer. Capacities and Specifications Fuel Tank Capacity 15.2 gallons/57.5 liters...

  • Page 266: Maintenanceschedule

    Part 7 Maintenance Schedule This part covers the maintenance required for your Buick dependability and emission control performance . Part 7 includes: ..............

  • Page 267: Introduction

    If you have any questions on how to keep your vehicle in good condition, see your Buick dealer, the place many GM owners choose to have their maintenance work done. Your dealer can be relied upon to use proper parts and practices.

  • Page 268: Your Vehicle And The Environment

    It also explains what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. “Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections” explains important inspections that your Buick dealer’s service department or another qualified service center should perform. job. If you...

  • Page 269: Section A: Scheduled Maintenance Services

    This section tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when you should schedule them. Your Buick dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. If you go to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll know that GM-trained and...

  • Page 270: Selecting The Right Schedule

    Selecting the Right Schedule First you’ll need to decide which of the two schedules is right for your vehicle. Here’s how to decide which schedule to follow: Schedule I Is any one of these true for your vehicle? Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km). Most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km) when outside temperatures are below freezing.
  • Page 271 Scheduled Maintenance Services Schedule I Follow Schedule I if your car is MAINLY driven under one or more When most trips are less than 4 miles (6 kilometers). When most trips are less. than 10 miles (16 kilometers) and outside temperatures remain below freezing. When most trips indude extended idling and/or frequent low-speed operation as in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Page 272 TO BE SERVICED WHEN TO PERFORM [See Explanation of Miles Scheduled Maintenance Months, Services Following: Schedules I and Item No. See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Service 7. Transaxle Service Following Schedules I and I1 8. Spark Plug Replacement* 9. Spark Plug Wire Inspection*T Every 30 000 mi (50 000...
  • Page 273 Scheduled Maintenance Services Schedule I1 Follow Schedule I1 ONLY if none of the driving conditions specified in Schedile I apply. TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules I and Item No. Engine Change* Every Change* Filter 2.
  • Page 274 TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules I I ) Item No. 7. Transaxle Service 8. Spark Plug Replacement* Spark Plug Wire Inspection*? 10. Air Cleaner Filter Replacement* 11. Fuel Tank, Cau & Lines Inspection"? The services shown in this schedule up to 45 000 miles (75 000 km) should be performed after intervals.

  • Page 275: Explanation Of Scheduled Maintenance Services

    Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Below are explanations the services listed in $chediie and Schedule 11. The proper fluids and lubricants Section Make sure whoever services your vehicle uses these. All parts should be replaced and all necessary repairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle.
  • Page 276 Inspect hoses and replace if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Tighten screw-type hose clamps. Clean the outside of the~radiator and air conditioning condenser. Wash the pressure cap and neck. To help ensure proper operation, we recommend a pressure test both the cooling system and the pressure cap.
  • Page 277 Section Owner Checks and € 5 : Services Listed below are owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever anv fluids or lubricants are added to vour vehicle, make...
  • Page 278 At Least Once A Month CHECK OR WHAT TO DO SERVICE Tire Inflation Check tire inflation. Make sure they are inflated to the pressures specified on the Tire-Loading Information label located on the rear edge of the driver’s door. See “Tires” in Index for further details.
  • Page 279 GAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. If it does, yoc or others could be injured. below. Follow the steps...
  • Page 281 INSPECTION WHAT SHOULD BE DONE OR SERVICE “: Steering, hspect the front and rear suspension Suspension and and steering system for damaged, Front-Wheel- loose or missing parts, signs of wear, Drive Axle or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering lines and hoses for Boot and Seal proper hookup, binding, leaks, Inspection...

  • Page 282: Section D: Recommended Fluids And Lubricants

    Section D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your GM dealer. USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Engine Oil GM Goodwrench Motor Oil or equivalent for API service SG Energy Conserving I1 oils of the proper viscosity.
  • Page 283 Hood Latch Assembly a. Engine oil. a.-Pivots Anchor Spwg b. Chassis lubricant meeting b. Release Pawl requirem’ents Cakgory LB or GC-LB ‘(GM No. 1,052447. or equivalent); Engine ail or kubriplate Lubricant Hood and Door No. 1050109). Part Hinges Fuel filler Door meeting lubricant...

  • Page 284: Section E: Maintenance Record

    Maintenance Record - < ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING...

  • Page 286: Customer Assistance Information

    Part 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This Part publications and how to report any safety defects. Part 8 includes: ............. .
  • Page 287 Customer Assistance for the Hearing or Speech Impaired (TDD) To assist owners who have hearing difficulties, Buick has installed special TDD (Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf) equipment at its Customer Assistance Center. Any hearing or speech impaired customer who has access to a TDD or a conventional teletypewriter (TTY) can .communicate with Buick by dialing:...
  • Page 288 TO. GENERAL MOTORS In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you'll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-521-7300 , or write: Buick Motor Division, Customer Assistance Center, 902 Hamilton Avenue, Flint, MI 48550.
  • Page 289 You can subscribe to all Buick Product Service Publications (PSP’s). This will include bulletins for all cars sold by Buick and will not be limited to PSP’s applicable to any particular model. When subscription, you will receive the PSP’s in periodic mailings, shortly after they come out.
  • Page 290 Individual PSP’s If you don’t want to buy all the PSP’s issued by Buick for all models in the model year, you can buy individual PSP’s, such as those which may pertain to a particular model.
  • Page 291 The number 1-800-551-4123. Copies Indexes and individual PSP’s are at your participating Buick dealer. You can ask IMPORTANT REMINDER: These psp,s are call is meant for technicians. They are not meant for the “do-it-yourselfer.” Technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to quickly and safely.

  • Page 294: Index

    Part 9 Index ......A c c (Ignition Key Position) Adding ........Brake Fluid .
  • Page 296 Children and Safety Belts Cigarette Lighter Circuit Breakers and Fuses ........City Driving Cleaner.
  • Page 299 Jacking u p the Car Jump Starting ......... . . K e y s Keyless Entry System.
  • Page 300 Maintenance Inspections Record Schedule Underbody Malfunction Indicator Lamp Manual Lumbar Support Manualseat Manual Seat. Four Way Markings. Pavement Master Cylinder. Brake Methanol In Gasoline Mirrors Mirrors. Convex Outside Mirrors. Visor Vanity Mist. Driving in Mobile Telephone. Adding Mountain Driving MTBE in Gasoline (Neutral) Gear Position Net.
  • Page 301 Power Antenna Door Locks Seat Controls Steering Steering Fluid Windows Pregnancy. Use of Safety Belts During Pressure. Tire Problems on the Road Proper Safety Belt Usage for Adults Publications. Service Publications Order Form Push-Starting Your Car Racing. Shifting When Your Engine is Radiator Overheating Radio.
  • Page 302 Safety Belt Care Safety Belt Extender Safety Belt Replacement Safety Belt Warning Light Safety Belt. Automatic Lap-Shoulder Safety Belt. Lap Safety Belts Safety Belts. Cars First Sold in Canada Safety Belts. Center Adult Passenger Safety Belts. Checking Your Safety Belts. Loose Safety Belts.
  • Page 303 Storing Your Vehicle Stuck. If Your Ignition Key is Stuck. IfYour Car Is Subscribing Buick Product Service Publications Surge Tank Pressure Cap Symbols on Your Car Table of Contents ........
  • Page 304 Underbody Maintenance Uniform Tire Quality Grading Unleaded Gasoline Uphill Parking ....... . . Upholstery Care Used Oil.
  • Page 305 Fuel Mileage Chart MILES PER GALLON...

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